Outlier strategy

Success strategies from Malcolm Gladwell's Outliers:


On his Persistence Unlimited blog, Brad Isaac extracts this six-point formula:

1. Put the 10,000-hour rule to work:

Mr. Gladwell notes that many stars and apparent "geniuses" - from Microsoft founder Bill Gates to the Beatles - put in 10,000 hours of toil to master their skills. So decide which single skill you would like to master, and start now.

2. Learn great negotiation communication skills:

The book highlights the importance of heritage and birthright, but dig deeper and you will find people who knew how to negotiate to get what they want.


3. Rise early:

The book notes how the diligence of China's rice farmers carries on through the generations. Mr. Isaac notes it has been said of rice farmers: "Anyone who rises before dawn 360 days each year never fails to make his family rich." So get up early and get to work early.

4. Seek autonomy:

The book repeatedly notes that people who are successful were fortunate enough to have the freedom to pursue their interests. Stay out of debt, since debt is slavery, and clear time for your 10,000 hours.

5. Take advantage of your gifts:

In considering where to seek success, consider your natural gifts and talents.

6. Take advantage of luck:

The book describes the many lucky situations people like Bill Gates encountered, but the important point is they took advantage of those opportunities.



Additionally, Goleman says they had a higher level of competencies like adaptability, initiative and empathy - all elements of emotional intelligence.